Aecon joint venture gets Metrolinx LRT contract

Toronto-based Aecon Group, Inc. said Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2013, that it and joint venture partner ACS Dragados Canada, Inc., also based in Toronto, have been awarded a C$177 million (US$169 million) tunneling contract for their home city's Eglinton Crosstown Light Rail Transit project.

Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area agency Metrolinx awarded the contract, which calls for two parallel 21.3-foot diameter tunnels west along Eglinton Avenue, running roughly 2 miles. The contract also includes the construction of two emergency exit buildings.

"The Eglinton Crosstown LRT is a landmark transit line that will serve millions of transit users across the City of Toronto," said Aecon President and COO Teri McKibbon. "Aecon has extensive experience developing mass transit systems, and we are pleased to be awarded this significant LRT contract."

Aecon Chairman and CEO John M. Beck attended a ceremonial groundbreaking ceremony Tuesday to mark the event, joined by Ontario Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Glen Murray, and Metrolinx President and CEO Bruce McCuaig.

The project is scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2016.